Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Duluth, GA

Photo of Jamie Goldberg - Alan Behrman & Associates, PC, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alan Behrman & Associates, PC
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
Jamie specializes in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders.
While active listening is an important skill for a therapist, listening can only go so far. Our practice belief is that we actually help you help yourself make the necessary changes in your life by giving you techniques, tools, skills, and guidance to achieve your goals. You'll almost always walk out of a session with a new technique or two that you can go home and start using immediately. Our practice has highly trained therapists, are personable, and we're ready to give you the skills and techniques you need to create change.
Jamie specializes in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders.
While active listening is an important skill for a therapist, listening can only go so far. Our practice belief is that we actually help you help yourself make the necessary changes in your life by giving you techniques, tools, skills, and guidance to achieve your goals. You'll almost always walk out of a session with a new technique or two that you can go home and start using immediately. Our practice has highly trained therapists, are personable, and we're ready to give you the skills and techniques you need to create change.
(678) 403-6674 View (678) 403-6674
Samara K. Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
Samara Foster, LCSW is committed to supporting individuals in overcoming their mental health challenges through compassionate therapy and personalized treatment. Practicing at LifeStance Health in Georgia, she offers a safe and empathetic environment where clients can freely express their thoughts and feelings. Samara collaborates with her clients to develop effective coping strategies, aiming to foster healthier, more fulfilling lives. With a strong focus on bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression, Samara is particularly passionate about helping individuals navigate the complexities of later life transitions.
Samara Foster, LCSW is committed to supporting individuals in overcoming their mental health challenges through compassionate therapy and personalized treatment. Practicing at LifeStance Health in Georgia, she offers a safe and empathetic environment where clients can freely express their thoughts and feelings. Samara collaborates with her clients to develop effective coping strategies, aiming to foster healthier, more fulfilling lives. With a strong focus on bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression, Samara is particularly passionate about helping individuals navigate the complexities of later life transitions.
(877) 265-3058 View (877) 265-3058
Photo of Nona Giddens, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nona Giddens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30096
I bring into the therapeutic relationship, experience and expertise in the areas of anxiety, depression, Mood Disorders, PTSD, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, ADHD and ODD.
At Alan Behrman & Associates, PC we believe in no criticism, no judgement, and no condemnation. I consider it a privilege and honor to join you on your journey to healing, wellness and wholeness. I have several years of experience with serving children, teens, and adults in providing individual, family, couples and group counseling. Through therapeutic excellence and compassionate care, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your life goals of mental and emotional health so that you can be the person you envision and aspire to be.
I bring into the therapeutic relationship, experience and expertise in the areas of anxiety, depression, Mood Disorders, PTSD, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, ADHD and ODD.
At Alan Behrman & Associates, PC we believe in no criticism, no judgement, and no condemnation. I consider it a privilege and honor to join you on your journey to healing, wellness and wholeness. I have several years of experience with serving children, teens, and adults in providing individual, family, couples and group counseling. Through therapeutic excellence and compassionate care, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your life goals of mental and emotional health so that you can be the person you envision and aspire to be.
(470) 613-2661 View (470) 613-2661
Photo of Teresa Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teresa Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096  (Online Only)
Sondermind logo Teresa Walker profile image Teresa Walker Licensed Clinical Social Worker location icon Video Practicing in Colorado and Georgia shield icon Insurance Aetna, Anthem, Bright Health Plan, CareSource, Cigna, Cl... See all below Call 866-929-1675 to book a session. Our Care Coordinators will guide you through the process. Specialties Anger Management Anxiety ADHD (Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder) Children's mental/behavioral health Adolescent & teen mental/behavioral health Depression Family relationships Grief / Bereavement Stress SonderMind Video Telehealth Bipolar Disorder Intimate / Romantic relatio
Sondermind logo Teresa Walker profile image Teresa Walker Licensed Clinical Social Worker location icon Video Practicing in Colorado and Georgia shield icon Insurance Aetna, Anthem, Bright Health Plan, CareSource, Cigna, Cl... See all below Call 866-929-1675 to book a session. Our Care Coordinators will guide you through the process. Specialties Anger Management Anxiety ADHD (Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder) Children's mental/behavioral health Adolescent & teen mental/behavioral health Depression Family relationships Grief / Bereavement Stress SonderMind Video Telehealth Bipolar Disorder Intimate / Romantic relatio
(470) 567-4419 View (470) 567-4419
Photo of Daine Barlow, Counselor
Daine Barlow
Counselor
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096  (Online Only)
I have worked for the Veterans Affairs as a community provider helping veteran navigate life after active duty and transition to civilian life and PTSD, in addition to community mental health and telehealth for woman, men and adolescents to address those experiencing difficulties with ADHD, anxiety, depression, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder.
Life is full of surprises, sometimes not all good that can impact our well-being. Together we can help manage these surprises that life has thrown at you through guidance and tools to cope with the inevitable and to make better decisions to grow and live a fulfilling lifestyle. In 2018, I graduated from Walden University with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I also have a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology. Now as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I have been working in private practice for the last 3 years.
I have worked for the Veterans Affairs as a community provider helping veteran navigate life after active duty and transition to civilian life and PTSD, in addition to community mental health and telehealth for woman, men and adolescents to address those experiencing difficulties with ADHD, anxiety, depression, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder.
Life is full of surprises, sometimes not all good that can impact our well-being. Together we can help manage these surprises that life has thrown at you through guidance and tools to cope with the inevitable and to make better decisions to grow and live a fulfilling lifestyle. In 2018, I graduated from Walden University with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I also have a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology. Now as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I have been working in private practice for the last 3 years.
(678) 866-0977 View (678) 866-0977
Photo of La'Mar A. Walker, MA, LPC, CCTP, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
La'Mar A. Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP, CPCS
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30097  (Online Only)
Specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist with stress management, anger management, conflict resolution, depression, ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
"Let me assist you in putting your mind at ease. Using psychotherapy to assist you with sharing your own goals and opening your mind to reach its full potential. Providing a calm non-judgmental atmosphere for families, individuals, couples, adolescents and adults". Visit us at mindfulworkscounseling.org and request your call today
Specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist with stress management, anger management, conflict resolution, depression, ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
"Let me assist you in putting your mind at ease. Using psychotherapy to assist you with sharing your own goals and opening your mind to reach its full potential. Providing a calm non-judgmental atmosphere for families, individuals, couples, adolescents and adults". Visit us at mindfulworkscounseling.org and request your call today
(678) 999-1003 View (678) 999-1003
Photo of Sally Ann Geckeler, LPC, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sally Ann Geckeler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30097
Life transitions are filled with many conflicting emotions. When emotions become overwhelming and it is difficult to make a decision than it is often time to find support. I am passionate about helping client's find direction during these confusing times by guiding them as they develop their own goals and strengths. I am a faith-based counselor working with adults and adolescents in the areas of trauma, suicidal ideation and self-harm, mood disorders, including depression, anxiety and bipolar as well as relationship challenges including recovery from emotionally abusive relationships and spiritual questioning.
Life transitions are filled with many conflicting emotions. When emotions become overwhelming and it is difficult to make a decision than it is often time to find support. I am passionate about helping client's find direction during these confusing times by guiding them as they develop their own goals and strengths. I am a faith-based counselor working with adults and adolescents in the areas of trauma, suicidal ideation and self-harm, mood disorders, including depression, anxiety and bipolar as well as relationship challenges including recovery from emotionally abusive relationships and spiritual questioning.
(404) 620-5344 View (404) 620-5344
Photo of Megan Booth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Booth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096  (Online Only)
I have been practicing for 14 years as a Clinical Social Worker in a private setting and an inpatient hospital. I completed my Masters degree in Social Work from Eastern Michigan University, receiving my certification in Michigan as a School Social Worker. I have been licensed in Michigan, Ohio and currently in Georgia with my focus on the adult and geriatric population. I have a solution focused approach to therapy and want to work with you to identify your strengths and use that to develop your goals and reach the changes you are looking for.
I have been practicing for 14 years as a Clinical Social Worker in a private setting and an inpatient hospital. I completed my Masters degree in Social Work from Eastern Michigan University, receiving my certification in Michigan as a School Social Worker. I have been licensed in Michigan, Ohio and currently in Georgia with my focus on the adult and geriatric population. I have a solution focused approach to therapy and want to work with you to identify your strengths and use that to develop your goals and reach the changes you are looking for.
(470) 693-8843 View (470) 693-8843
Photo of Louisa Josephine Peluso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Louisa Josephine Peluso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Louisa Peluso, a Therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I have over 30 years experience in managing change. My training consists of a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California, a Masters in Business Administration in Organizational Change from New York University, and thousands of hours in organizational change and community mental health. I love to help people create positive change in their lives, their families, and their communities.
Hi! I'm Louisa Peluso, a Therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I have over 30 years experience in managing change. My training consists of a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California, a Masters in Business Administration in Organizational Change from New York University, and thousands of hours in organizational change and community mental health. I love to help people create positive change in their lives, their families, and their communities.
(770) 404-7633 View (770) 404-7633
Photo of Rakia Malachi, MEd,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rakia Malachi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
Rakia Malachi is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from the University of West Georgia and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Valdosta State University. Rakia offers an integrated approach to meet her clients’ needs by using person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, DBT, CBT, narrative therapy, and solution-focused brief therapy. Outside of work, Rakia enjoys baking, reading, traveling, painting, spending time with friends and family, anime, and hiking.
Rakia Malachi is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from the University of West Georgia and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Valdosta State University. Rakia offers an integrated approach to meet her clients’ needs by using person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, DBT, CBT, narrative therapy, and solution-focused brief therapy. Outside of work, Rakia enjoys baking, reading, traveling, painting, spending time with friends and family, anime, and hiking.
(470) 742-4009 View (470) 742-4009
Photo of Kemesha Nickelson - Kemesha's Therapy Space, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kemesha's Therapy Space
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30096  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to Kemesha’s Therapy Space! Life can be overwhelming at times, whether you're a young adult navigating transitions, a family dealing with conflict, a couple looking to reconnect, or a preteen or teen facing the challenges of adolescence. You don’t have to go through it alone—I'm here to help with anxiety, depression, family conflicts, and trauma. Together, we’ll face these challenges and work towards a future where you feel heard, supported, and hopeful.
Welcome to Kemesha’s Therapy Space! Life can be overwhelming at times, whether you're a young adult navigating transitions, a family dealing with conflict, a couple looking to reconnect, or a preteen or teen facing the challenges of adolescence. You don’t have to go through it alone—I'm here to help with anxiety, depression, family conflicts, and trauma. Together, we’ll face these challenges and work towards a future where you feel heard, supported, and hopeful.
(470) 397-1419 View (470) 397-1419
Photo of Misoon Lee, MA, LPC, NCC, RN, Licensed Professional Counselor
Misoon Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, RN
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30097
I provide counseling services in an atmosphere of welcoming all people who are seeking help for emotional and spiritual support. It is voluntary and confidential. I provide a wide range of counseling services for individual, couples, adolescents, and adults. I utilize several therapeutic theories to fit each individual's personal growth, which he or she is striving toward. I mainly exercise CBT & DBT for treating anxiety, depression, and adjustment issues.
I provide counseling services in an atmosphere of welcoming all people who are seeking help for emotional and spiritual support. It is voluntary and confidential. I provide a wide range of counseling services for individual, couples, adolescents, and adults. I utilize several therapeutic theories to fit each individual's personal growth, which he or she is striving toward. I mainly exercise CBT & DBT for treating anxiety, depression, and adjustment issues.
(678) 379-2872 View (678) 379-2872
Photo of Wayne Hulon, MDiv, LPC, AAPB, ABCP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wayne Hulon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LPC, AAPB, ABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30097
I've had a diverse background in business, professional sports, corporate training, management consulting, the chaplaincy, bariatrics, pain management, addiction, psychophysiology, behavioral medicine, neurofeedback and photobiomodulation. Harville Hendrix of "Getting the Love You Want" was my supervisor for 8 years. Hence, I truly enjoy a wide range of issues and personalities. I'm compassionate but direct in my style and often described as "Dr. Phil, with a heart". No therapist has your answers, but if we ask the right questions, in the context of genuine care, safety, and respect, you will discover your truth and find your way.
I've had a diverse background in business, professional sports, corporate training, management consulting, the chaplaincy, bariatrics, pain management, addiction, psychophysiology, behavioral medicine, neurofeedback and photobiomodulation. Harville Hendrix of "Getting the Love You Want" was my supervisor for 8 years. Hence, I truly enjoy a wide range of issues and personalities. I'm compassionate but direct in my style and often described as "Dr. Phil, with a heart". No therapist has your answers, but if we ask the right questions, in the context of genuine care, safety, and respect, you will discover your truth and find your way.
(770) 927-4536 View (770) 927-4536
Photo of Sala Hilaire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sala Hilaire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Master Addiction Counselor, Certified Anger Management Specialist, and Certified Grief Informed Professional, I can provide counseling services to individuals across the life cycle, including young adults, couples, transitioning teens, and families. My practice philosophy is to treat the “whole person” by addressing each client’s physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and cultural needs. I accomplish this by creating and promoting conditions conducive to personal growth and development.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Master Addiction Counselor, Certified Anger Management Specialist, and Certified Grief Informed Professional, I can provide counseling services to individuals across the life cycle, including young adults, couples, transitioning teens, and families. My practice philosophy is to treat the “whole person” by addressing each client’s physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and cultural needs. I accomplish this by creating and promoting conditions conducive to personal growth and development.
(470) 722-1505 View (470) 722-1505
Photo of Veronica Blakely, Licensed Professional Counselor
Veronica Blakely
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096  (Online Only)
Veronica holds a Master of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Counseling from Argosy University. She’s been practicing therapy for over a decade. She works with adolescent and adults on various issues such as depression ( which looks like feelings of loneliness, worthlessness, lost of interest in normally enjoyable things, self doubt, etc), anxiety ( which looks like feelings of panic, fear, uneasiness, excessive worry etc), burnout, life transitions, career progression, self-worth issues and family stressors. Veronica brings a warm genuine presence to the counseling session. She believes that by using her counseling skills
Veronica holds a Master of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Counseling from Argosy University. She’s been practicing therapy for over a decade. She works with adolescent and adults on various issues such as depression ( which looks like feelings of loneliness, worthlessness, lost of interest in normally enjoyable things, self doubt, etc), anxiety ( which looks like feelings of panic, fear, uneasiness, excessive worry etc), burnout, life transitions, career progression, self-worth issues and family stressors. Veronica brings a warm genuine presence to the counseling session. She believes that by using her counseling skills
(470) 665-4149 View (470) 665-4149
Photo of Theresa J Holt - Helping Other Live Together Inc., EdD, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Helping Other Live Together Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
With over 20 years experience as a therapist, and as a graduate of Argosy University Sarasota, Florida. Dr. Holt specializes in Reality Therapy. She is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Areas of expertise include but are not limited to children and adolescents, couples, anxiety and trauma. Dr. Holt is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Dr. Holt integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client.
With over 20 years experience as a therapist, and as a graduate of Argosy University Sarasota, Florida. Dr. Holt specializes in Reality Therapy. She is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Areas of expertise include but are not limited to children and adolescents, couples, anxiety and trauma. Dr. Holt is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Dr. Holt integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client.
(678) 974-0056 View (678) 974-0056
Photo of Shannon Darden, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Darden
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096  (Online Only)
Let me show you how to become the strong individual you are and start living your BEST life today!!
Let me show you how to become the strong individual you are and start living your BEST life today!!
(770) 767-3917 View (770) 767-3917
Photo of Kelli Gordy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelli Gordy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30097
Kelli Gordy is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since she graduated from Columbus State University in Columbus, Georgia in 2005 with a Master of Science degree in Community Counseling. She became an Associate Professional Counselor in 2014 and a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2017. Kelli believes in person-centered theory, which focuses on each client's individual challenges and needs. Her main areas of focus are Trauma-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. In her spare time, Kelli enjoys going to the gym, museums, thrift stores, reading, and art festivals.
Kelli Gordy is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since she graduated from Columbus State University in Columbus, Georgia in 2005 with a Master of Science degree in Community Counseling. She became an Associate Professional Counselor in 2014 and a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2017. Kelli believes in person-centered theory, which focuses on each client's individual challenges and needs. Her main areas of focus are Trauma-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. In her spare time, Kelli enjoys going to the gym, museums, thrift stores, reading, and art festivals.
(470) 394-6641 View (470) 394-6641
Photo of Kelsey Sander, LCSW, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey Sander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
Waitlist for new clients
Manna Treatment specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma-based disorders, and general mental health. My goal as a primary therapist at Manna is to provide clients and their families a safe space to heal from their underlying hurts and pains and become leaders of their own journey again. Manna offers outpatient therapy, including individual and family, as well as partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient for eating disorders and intensive outpatient for trauma recovery. I also provide the option for clients to utilize faith-based principles in their work with me, if desired.
Manna Treatment specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma-based disorders, and general mental health. My goal as a primary therapist at Manna is to provide clients and their families a safe space to heal from their underlying hurts and pains and become leaders of their own journey again. Manna offers outpatient therapy, including individual and family, as well as partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient for eating disorders and intensive outpatient for trauma recovery. I also provide the option for clients to utilize faith-based principles in their work with me, if desired.
(678) 326-4522 View (678) 326-4522
Photo of Mallery Higgs, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Mallery Higgs
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30097  (Online Only)
WHY Choose Me? Because I can relate. I am a Therapist, who is a former Student-Athlete, Coach and Mentor. I lettered in 3 high school sports; basketball, volleyball, track & field, and participated in gymnastics through middle school. After high school, I ran track at University of Tennessee, Knoxville on a full-ride scholarship - Go Vols. I also coached/mentored many athletes for over 30 years. I have been inducted into four sports Halls of Fame, and served in the community for years. Being a therapist coupled with my coaching/mentoring experiences, makes me a great fit for athletes needing someone who can relate to your struggles.
WHY Choose Me? Because I can relate. I am a Therapist, who is a former Student-Athlete, Coach and Mentor. I lettered in 3 high school sports; basketball, volleyball, track & field, and participated in gymnastics through middle school. After high school, I ran track at University of Tennessee, Knoxville on a full-ride scholarship - Go Vols. I also coached/mentored many athletes for over 30 years. I have been inducted into four sports Halls of Fame, and served in the community for years. Being a therapist coupled with my coaching/mentoring experiences, makes me a great fit for athletes needing someone who can relate to your struggles.
(678) 661-5498 View (678) 661-5498
1
Bipolar Disorder Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.